Billy Connolly to be honoured with Special Recognition gong at National Television Awards

00:01, 9 Jan 2016

ByScotland Now

THE Big Yin's long-time friend Dustin Hoffman will be flying in from Los Angeles to present the award, as friends and fans pay tribute to the comedian.

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Billy Connolly

SCOTS legend Billy Connolly will be presented with the Special Recognition Award at this year's National Television Awards.

The Big Yin's long-time friend and colleague Dustin Hoffman, 78, will be flying in especially from Los Angeles to present the award.

Many of the comedian's friends and celebrity fans have recorded film tributes that will be screened at the 21st NTAs on January 20 in London.

The award will honour the 73-year-old’s remarkable career so far and celebrate his 50 years as a unique, much-loved and highly respected performer.

PA

Dustin Hoffman will present the award

Armando Iannucci said: “It’s unbelievable and yet no surprise that we’re celebrating 50 years of Billy Connolly. Because he doesn’t compromise, because he doesn’t fit a label, he has no shelf life, he’s not part of a phase.

"He’s unique. You can’t really sum him up. The only way you can explain him to someone is by saying, 'just try and imagine Billy Connolly.'”

Billy’s award will be the second time in a row a Scot has been given it. Last year David Tennant was the recipient. Other past winners include Sir David Jason, Sir Bruce Forsyth, Sir David Attenborough, Simon Cowell and The Sweeney star John Thaw.

The NTAs will be presented by Dermot O’Leary and shown on January 20 on STV.